Since January this year, regional train passengers have been subject to unacceptable disruption, Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan said.

“As a result, V/Line commissioned an independent review into what caused issues.”

That report is now available and shows a combination of tight curves on the network, inadequate lubrication and the wear resistance of rail and wheels were the root cause of the problems.

Work to fix these problems has already begun and soon, 97 % of services across the network will run as normal.

“I also announced an independent Operational, Structure and Capability review of V/Line.” Ms. Allan said.

The Board has now provided me with this report and it shows that V/Line has been asked to do more with less for too long.

V/Line’s funding was cut by $120 Million by the former Liberal and National Government, which put pressure on the organisation at a critical time in its development.

“It should have been growing as regional patronage and service levels grew. Instead, the Liberal and National Government cut funding to the regional operator, which has hurt V/Line and regional passengers.” Ms. Allan said.

VIC Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan

The review also makes important recommendations about improving the structure, governance and capability of V/Line and the board will adopt all of those recommendations.

“I will be discussing the report with the Board in coming weeks and have asked the Chair to start the recruitment of a new CEO.”

“As someone who lives in regional Victoria, I believe in making V/Line stronger and better.”

“I am determined to build a better regional operator so it can deliver the services passengers expect and deserve.” Ms. Allan said.

Bogie is the technical term for the wheel of a train carriage or engine.